HAVING spent nine weeks in the University Hospital of North Durham and Chester-le-Street Community Hospital at near death I wish to thank my wife, Isabel, my granddaughter, Barbara, and greatgranddaughters Sarah and Demi for their devotion and care.

Barbara and Sarah slept at the hospital while I was bad. I wish to thank them for their love and care. God bless them.

Alfred Offer, Ushaw Moor, Co Durham